Candidate Profile 2024: Marc Molinaro Seeks Return To Congress

HUDSON VALLEY, NY — In 2024's general election, residents of the Hudson Valley will be voting for federal, state and local officials. In anticipation, Patch asked candidates in the region's contested races to answer questions about their campaigns and will be publishing candidate profiles as election day draws near.

Republican incumbent Marc Molinaro is facing Democrat challenger Josh Riley to represent the critical 19th District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Name: Marc Molinaro

Education: SUNY Dutchess

Age: 48

Occupation: Congressman

Campaign website, social media:

https://www.marcforus.com/

https://www.facebook.com/MarcMolinaroNY/

Why are you seeking this office?

I’ve been ranked the most bipartisan lawmaker in New York, fifth in Congress for most bills passed, and have focused on securing our border, fighting crime, protecting Social Security & Medicare, and making life more affordable. I’m running for re-election to continue delivering real bipartisan results for the families, farmers, and small businesses who call Upstate New York home.

What are the major differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

While I’ve worked hard to secure our borders by passing the Secure the Border Act and authoring the Schools Not Shelters Act, Josh Riley has spent his career in DC dismantling border security policies and advocating for open borders. Riley’s past shows a commitment to extreme, failed policies. And now, he's lying about all of it in his TV ads.

What other issues are you addressing during your campaign?

I’m expanding opportunities for everyone, including individuals with disabilities, through my Think DIFFERENTLY initiative. As the father of four children, one of whom lives on the Autism spectrum, I know we can do better. That's why I'm fighting so everyone has the opportunity to live with dignity and access the support they need.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I’m proud to be ranked the most bipartisan lawmaker in New York and fifth in Congress for bills passed. While Washington and Albany argue, I've delivered real, bipartisan results.

What is the best advice anyone ever gave you?

Not necessarily advice, but a lesson I learned from Bobby Kennedy, JFK's brother. He said public service was a dignified duty. Public servants have the opportunity to uplift their communities and improve the lives of others. This ideal was my spark and pushed me to serve.

Is there anything else you would like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

With reproductive health in the news, my opponent is now lying about my position. Here's where I stand: I believe healthcare decisions should be between a woman and her doctor. That’s why I kept my promise to reject a national abortion ban — keeping New York’s laws in place. And it’s why I bucked my own party to protect IVF, birth control, and mifepristone.